Praise for both sides are successful weekend of action

Dagenham Dragons under-14s were on fire as they came out on top in their Community League clash with Islington’s Activities4U.

Both sides sunk three-point shots in the first quarter, but Islington led 19-13 at the break.

Gurcthon Ruzila led the Dragons fightback, though, with a 17-point performance and although Islington fought back they came up short in a 41-37 Dagenham victory.

Ruzila said: “I’m happy we won because it proves we work hard as a team and our hard work pays off.

“I enjoy playing in the CBL because it helps me to get better as a player.”

The Community Basketball League (CBL) is run by the London School of Basketball in partnership with Reach and Teach.

For more information email lwilliams@reachandteach.co.uk.

Barking Abbey’s women booked a place in the last four of the WBBL Trophy with a 71-49 win over Cardiff Met Archers on Sunday.

Savannah Wilkinson was back from GB senior duty to lead the way with 19 points, with 15 of them coming in the first half.

Tereza Brantlova and Abiola Wabara both scored 10 points to the delight of head coach Mark Clark.

“We’re pleased to keep a team to under 50 again. We’re making a habit of doing a good job at the defensive end,” he said.

“I’m pleased with how we moved the ball. It’s always difficult to pick up after a break, we’ve missed Savannah for two weeks.”

Abbey return to WBBL action at Manchester Mystics on Saturday.

The men experienced mixed fortunes in Division Three, as they beat Plymouth 81-78 on Saturday, but slipped to a 77-63 loss against Team Solent the following night.

Tom Child top scored in the first match of the double header with 21 points, while Zephi Sharman added 14 and Kevin Boatey finished with 13, including 11 in the final quarter.

Head coach Lloyd Gardner said: “I’m delighted to pick up a win in Division Three – we haven’t had many this season so any time we get a win it’s pleasing.”

Jonathan St Hilaire (15) led the Abbey scoring against Solent, as Boatey (12) and Sam Kato (eight) gave support.

“The performance was a long way ahead of where we were a month ago. The fact we’re disappointed with the result shows you how far we’ve come,” added Gardner.